Patient FAQ

In order for things to run more smoothly and to minimise waiting time, you can download the form here, complete it, and bring it with you on your first appointment with us. Please note, to ensure privacy, you cannot email us your completed form.

If you are a new patient and have made an appointment, we advise you to come to our Medical Centre 10 minutes earlier, so that you can fill out the necessary paperwork

Medical certificates will not be issued for non-medical reasons apart from bereavement or family support. Patients must be seen at the time of illness in order to receive a medical certificate. They cannot be backdated as it is illegal.

REPEAT PRESCRIPTIONS

Modern medications are potent and can lead to harmful side effects if managed incorrectly. It is therefore crucial to make an appointment with your doctor to check for possible side effects as well as receive updates on whether it is still the best treatment for your condition. Repeat prescriptions will not be given to patients of whom we have not been seen for 6 months, or to whom we have never prescribed that specific medication in the past.

TEST RESULTS

Due to the astounding amount of patients we care for, it is your responsibility to follow up your test results.

In order to protect your privacy, our receptionists and doctors cannot give or discuss test results over the phone. Patients are required to come to the Burwood Westfield Medical Centre to see a doctor in order to receive and discuss their results.

If you would like to make an appointment to discuss your results, please call (02) 9744 3330.

COMMUNICATION POLICY

Phone calls from patients are generally not taken by the doctors to keep consultations free from disruptions as much as possible, unless urgent. Messages can be left instead and we will endeavour to answer your query as soon as practicable. It is recommended that you visit the doctor immediately if the matter is urgent.

RECALLS/REMINDER SYSTEMS

Our practice is committed to preventative care. We routinely send recall and reminder letters to patients offering you preventative health services appropriate to your care. If you do not wish to be part of this system, please let your doctor or the receptionist know.

eHEALTH

An electronic health (eHealth) record is a personally controlled and secure summary of your health history. You control what goes in it and which medical centre has access to it. The eHealth initiative will enable a safer, higher quality, more equitable and sustainable health system for all Australians.

If you choose to use eHeath, this will allow Burwood Westfield Medical Centre to view your past health history and upload new health/event summaries. It would also allow both you and the medical centre to have a comprehensive information on your health history, which would allow for a better understanding of your health and needs.

So, in summary

Access to your records is under YOUR control (confidentiality)

YOU control the types of information accessible by authorised healthcare professional (discretionary)

Your medical record is a confidential document. It is the policy of this practice to maintain the security of your personal health information at all times and to ensure that this information is available only to authorised members of staff. It may not be shared with anyone outside the centre without the patient’s express consent and authorication.